Tonga is a country in Oceania / Pacific, Oceania with a rich history, unique culture and some remarkable records. Here are the most interesting facts about Tonga that most people don't know.
Tonga is the last remaining Polynesian kingdom — a constitutional monarchy that has never been fully colonised by a European power. It is one of the only places in the world where you can legally swim with humpback whales in the wild.
Tonga is the last remaining Polynesian kingdom — never fully colonised.
Tonga is one of the only places to legally swim with humpback whales.
Tonga produces more rugby players per capita than almost any country.
The Ha'amonga 'a Maui is a 1200 AD trilithon — Tonga's Stonehenge.
Tonga is the last remaining Polynesian kingdom — a constitutional monarchy that has never been fully colonised by a European power. It is one of the only places in the world where you can legally swim with humpback whales in the wild.
Tonga is known for several remarkable places that attract visitors and define the country's identity:
A massive stone gateway built in 1200 AD — Tonga's Stonehenge, with astronomical alignments
The only place on Earth where you can legally swim with humpback whales — July to October
A freshwater limestone cave with a natural swimming pool and stalactites
Dramatic ocean blowholes shooting water 30m into the air along the southern coast
Tonga is the last remaining Polynesian kingdom — a constitutional monarchy that has never been fully colonised by a European power. It is one of the only places in the world where you can legally swim with humpback whales in the wild.
The capital of Tonga is Nukuʻalofa.
Tonga has a population of approximately 100K.
The official languages of Tonga are Tongan / English.
Tonga gained independence in 1970.
Tonga uses the Tongan Paʻanga (TOP).